The Success Trap

Why do some artists struggle after their first big hit? Why do people choke under pressure, even when they’ve practiced flawlessly? And why does success sometimes feel more like a trap than a triumph?

Rapid success triggers a psychological shift. Before a breakthrough, your identity is clear—you create, express, and push forward without expectations. After success, the bar rises. You’re no longer just a creator; you’re someone expected to produce hits. Every new challenge feels like a test, and failure becomes more than a setback; it feels like a fall from a higher ledge.

Athletes don’t choke in practice; they choke under the lights. When the brain perceives a threat, it shifts from challenge mode (where stress sharpens focus) to threat mode (where stress overwhelms). A little pressure fuels excellence. Too much makes us freeze or avoid the task altogether. The nervous system is built to handle challenges but crumbles under existential threats.

Our thoughts shape our biology. If you see a situation as life-defining, your body will react as if it is. The key to performing under pressure is reframing—seeing stress as a challenge, not a threat.

When pressure builds, reset your nervous system. Splashing cold water on your face triggers a natural calming response in your body, slowing your heart rate and helping you relax. Looking at the horizon expands your visual field, signaling safety and reducing stress-induced tunnel vision. Practicing something you’re good at rebuilds confidence, shifting you from anxiety to competence. And being around others helps ease the pressure—humans evolved to share burdens, and connection reminds you that you’re not alone.

Next time you feel pressure rising, ask yourself: Am I seeing this as a challenge or a threat? The answer might make all the difference.